04-19-2023, 11:08 AM
Heads of state must consider pardon applications judiciously, says ex-AG
![[Image: 8_NAJIB_RAZAK_SRC_FMT_16082022-1-109.jpg]](https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/8_NAJIB_RAZAK_SRC_FMT_16082022-1-109.jpg)
PETALING JAYA: The Malay rulers and governors as heads of their respective states are expected to act fairly and judiciously when considering applications for pardon, a former attorney-general (AG) said.
Abu Talib Othman said the power to grant mercy is vested in the heads of state in their capacity as a fountain of justice. Their power includes granting various forms of clemency, including a full pardon.
“They are expected to act fairly and judiciously and not at their individual whims and fancies,” he told FMT.
Abu Talib, who served as AG between 1980 and 1993, said this in response to whether heads of state have absolute discretion as to whether to grant a pardon or act on advice of their respective pardon boards.
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Abu Talib Othman said the power to grant mercy is vested in the heads of state in their capacity as a fountain of justice. Their power includes granting various forms of clemency, including a full pardon.
“They are expected to act fairly and judiciously and not at their individual whims and fancies,” he told FMT.
Abu Talib, who served as AG between 1980 and 1993, said this in response to whether heads of state have absolute discretion as to whether to grant a pardon or act on advice of their respective pardon boards.
- More -